Ryan McDonagh News

McDonagh missed Sunday’s game in Pittsburgh because he said his backed tightened up on him late in Saturday’s game vs. the Islanders. McDonagh was back on the Rangers second power-play unit this morning, so look for him to replace with Brendan Smith or Steve Kampfer in the lineup tonight. McDonagh is still searching for his first goal of the season, but is tied for 10th among defensemen in assists (19).

McDonagh skated with his teammates on Tuesday morning but will miss his fourth consecutive game with an abdominal strain. Despite not being available tonight, he is making strides towards a return and could be back in vs. the Hurricanes on Friday. Monitor his status as the week progresses.

McDonagh is battling a strained abdomen muscle and is set to miss another game this afternoon vs. the Canucks. With McDonagh still out, Steven Kampfer will remain in the lineup.

McDonagh missed Wednesday’s practice for “maintenance” reasons, but was on the ice for the morning skate and said he will play tonight vs. the Islanders. McDonagh has had a slow start to the season, posting just two assists in seven games.

McDonagh was held off of the this morning for “maintenance” reasons but head coach Alain Vigneault said he “should” play and will skate in the morning skate.

McDonagh was a late scratch on Tuesday, but will return to the lineup tonight in Dallas. McDonagh has an assist in three straight games and 17 points (1G / 16A) in 30 games this season. Expect Adam Clendening to sit.

McDonagh missed the final three games of the regular season and game one. He will sit out at least one more game with a small fracture in his right hand. The Rangers could be playing an important game two without their top defenseman and goaltender.

McDonagh missed the final three games of the regular season and will definitely miss the start of the Rangers’ playoff series with the Penguins. With McDonagh out, Dylan McIlrath will remain in the Rangers’ lineup.